Staying safe during the Festive Season
As the festive season approaches, the excitement of Christmas shopping, social gatherings and holiday travel can sometimes cause people to be less cautious than usual about their personal safety. Unfortunately, the festive period brings with it new opportunities which criminals are only too happy to exploit. The rate at which crimes such as shoplifting, robberies, alcohol-fuelled incidents, fraud and burglaries occur usually increases over the festive period.
“The festive season should be relaxing and enjoyable,” says Danhouse MD, John Fitzpatrick, “and staying safe should always be a priority. As part of our ongoing partnership with the Metropolitan Police and City of London Police, I would like to draw your attention to some personal safety advice for the festive period.”
Parking
Car parks can be hotspots for theft and accidents. Follow this advice and you will reduce your chances of falling victim to a car park crime during the Christmas rush:
- Choose your parking-spot wisely: try to park in well-lit areas, where there are other people around, preferably close to entrances, exits or lifts. Always make a mental note of any distinguishing features or landmarks that will help you find your vehicle quickly and easily when you return to it.
- Secure your vehicle: as you leave your vehicle, double-check that your doors are locked and windows are closed. It is best not to leave any valuables, including shopping-bags, in your car, but if you must, make sure you hide them from prying eyes.
- Avoid distractions: avoid texting or looking at your phone while walking through parking areas. Being aware of your environment is key to staying safe.
- Stay alert: before returning to your car, have your keys ready and take a moment to survey your surroundings. Look out for anyone loitering near your vehicle. If something doesn’t feel right, return quickly to a public place. If you can, seek out a security guard or car park management. Most buildings, shopping-centres and commercial properties employ security personnel. If it’s late at night or after business hours, don’t be shy about asking for assistance, such as requesting an escort to your vehicle.
- Know your phone’s SOS system: make sure you familiarise yourself with yours so that if you feel threatened you can quickly use the phone to alert a family member or trusted friend as to your whereabouts.
Shopping
Gift shopping can sometimes be stressful. It’s important to take a few safety precautions in crowded malls and bustling markets:
- Protect your valuables: carry a bag that closes securely and keep it close to your body. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; opt for cards or digital payments instead.
- Shop during off-peak hours: if possible, avoid peak times to reduce stress and risks associated with large crowds.
- Beware of distractions: scammers and pickpockets often operate in busy areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t let anyone distract you unnecessarily. Keep wallets in a secure, front-facing pocket and avoid leaving your phone on tables or counters.
- Stay calm under pressure: with busier than usual stores and limited parking, tempers can flare. Stay patient and polite, and avoid confrontations.
- Using ATMs: a common crime today is Distraction Theft at ATM points. Criminals create some form of ‘commotion’ while the victim is making a withdrawal from a bank machine and then they attempt to take the victim’s card, having observed the PIN number. It is highly advisable to use ATMs located inside banks and building societies.
Online Shopping
Criminals are finding increasingly sophisticated ways of defrauding people when they shop online. Here are some tips for staying safe online:
- Shop on Secure Websites: look for the padlock symbol and “https://” in the URL. Only make purchases on the websites of reputable and well-known retailers.
- Use Strong and Unique Passwords: create unique passwords for shopping accounts and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: opt for credit cards or trusted payment platforms like PayPal. Avoid debit cards, wire transfers or direct bank payments.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: never shop or enter payment details on public Wi-Fi without a VPN. Use a secure, private internet connection.
- Be Wary of Scams and Fake Deals: avoid clicking on unsolicited emails or pop-up ads. Be suspicious of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Keep Software Updated: update your browser, device and antivirus software regularly. Use ad blockers to prevent malicious pop-ups and trackers.
Visit the Get Safe Online website for useful information about safe use of the internet.
Socialising
The festive season is full of opportunities to connect with others. At parties and gatherings safety can sometimes take a backseat. Here’s some advice on how to socialise safely:
- Drink responsibly: know your limits and always keep an eye on your drink. Never accept drinks from strangers unless you see them poured.
- Stay in a group: stick with friends you trust and look out for one another. If you’re meeting someone new, choose a public place and tell a friend about your plans.
- Be vigilant and trust your instincts: if something doesn’t feel quite right or someone’s behaviour makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts and extract yourself from the situation. Your safety is more important than social expectations.
- Ask for Angela: this is a national scheme which enables people to seek help from bar staff discreetly if they feel unsafe or threatened while on a night out in a bar. Click here for more information.
- Using taxis: use trusted taxi services or rideshare apps to avoid having to walk home alone late at night. Share your travel plans with someone you trust. Only black cabs or advanced booked cabs can be hailed in the street. Never get into a car cruising the streets; they are illegal and not insured to carry you. Always carry the number of a trusted registered minicab company (see useful numbers below) and confirm the driver’s details when they arrive. If you are on your own in a minicab, always sit in the back.
Holiday Travel
Whether you’re heading overseas or travelling within the UK, holiday travel requires extra attention to safety:
- Planning: book your tickets and accommodation early to avoid last-minute stress. Confirm travel arrangements and share your itinerary with close friends or family.
- Prepare your route: if you’re driving, plan your journey in advance and check traffic and weather updates. Make sure your satnav is functioning as it should. If not, bring a map.
- Vehicle readiness: make sure your car is roadworthy, and ready for winter weather. Check the tyres, battery, lights, and windscreen wipers. Keep an emergency kit in the car with essentials like a torch, blanket, water and snacks.
- Stay connected: keep your phone charged and have emergency contacts readily available. Consider downloading safety apps that share your location.
- Secure your home: if you’re going to be away from your home over Christmas make sure it is secure. Use timers for lights and ask a trusted neighbour to check your house occasionally.
- Secure your luggage: when travelling by bus, train, or plane, label your bags clearly and never leave them unattended.
- Stay alert in transport hubs: airports and railway stations can be crowded and chaotic during the holidays. Keep your belongings close by, be cautious of pickpockets and avoid distractions.
Useful Numbers and Apps
- In an emergency, call999 for the Police, Ambulance or Fire Brigade.
- Metropolitan Police: dial 101 for incidents not requiring an immediate police response.
- City of London Police main switchboard – Dial 999 in an emergency, Dial 101 in a non-emergency.
- Uber – 0808 189 7190 or 0808 501 5525 or Download the App.
- Bolt (Taxi) – Download the App.
- MiniCabRide – Call 020 7005 0090 or Download the App.
- Addison Lee – 020 7387 8888or Download the App.
- National Rail Enquiries – 03457 48 49 50 or social mediafor 24/7 support across the National Rail network, real-time updates and advice on services. Message them on X: @nationalrailenq
The festive period should be a time of cheer, and taking the precautions outlined in this post can help you avoid unnecessary stress or danger. By staying alert and planning ahead, you can enjoy all the festivities and have peace of mind as well.
The team at Danhouse wish you an enjoyable festive season and a safe and healthy 2025.
The team at Danhouse wish you an enjoyable festive season and a safe and healthy 2025.
